sureCore Transitions SRAM Cores to 16nm FinFET Process

sureCore, a leading low power embedded SRAM IP specialist, has recently unveiled its PowerMiser ultra-low dynamic power memory compiler designed for 16nm processes. This new development is set to empower developers in meeting their power efficiency targets and fully leveraging the capabilities offered by these well-established FinFET technologies.

According to sureCore CEO Paul Wells, the evolution of FinFET technology was primarily driven by the need to combat the escalating leakage issues associated with bulk nodes. He explains, "The mobile sector, in particular, demanded enhanced performance to support new features and elevate user experiences. At that time, power consumption was not a major concern due to the dominance of radio and display components in determining battery life."

Wells further elaborates, "However, the landscape has shifted with the rise of power-sensitive devices like wearables and medical gadgets, which feature smaller form factors and consequently, limited battery capacities. To address this demand, there is a critical need for power-optimized IP solutions that can harness the efficiency benefits of FinFET technology without compromising on performance." The introduction of the PowerMiser SRAM IP by sureCore is poised to facilitate the adoption of mature FinFET processes in low power applications, offering a competitive edge in terms of cost efficiency and extended battery life.

The adoption of mature FinFET nodes is gaining traction among companies focusing on low power applications such as wearables, IoT devices, and medical equipment. These nodes present an appealing proposition with their blend of performance, density, and yield, enabling significant power savings by reducing operating voltages while meeting performance benchmarks.

Having been in production for over a decade, the 16nm technology has matured to a point where manufacturing challenges have been addressed, and the associated tooling costs have significantly decreased. This transformation has made FinFET technology cost-competitive for developers targeting power-sensitive devices, marking a shift from its initial prominence in the HPC and mobile sectors to a viable solution for a broader range of applications.